English indie rock band The Vaccines triumphantly returned to Rock City to celebrate the 15-year anniversary of their debut album. They delivered a legendary performance to an electrified crowd, creating a striking and memorable night for the masses...
Upon arriving at Rock City, it was immediately clear how eager the crowded room of fans were to see this performance with the sold-out venue packed wall to wall with people. As soon as the passive music playing over the empty stage faded to a halt, an uproar of passionate fans cheering and applauding began before the band had even made an appearance, growing even louder when the band finally arrived on stage and opened with the powerful Blow It Up. The crowd was instantly enthralled, creating a sea of movement across the venue, singing along to every word (much to my amazement).
Following with some invigorating opening remarks, the band proceeded to play Wreckin’ Bar (Ra Ra Ra), Post Break-Up Sex, Wetsuit and A Lack of Understanding, the crowd persisting in their enthusiasm continuing to recite every lyric and keep the atmosphere booming.
Throughout the show the band kept an energetic stage presence, connecting with those in the audience, crafting a highly charged atmosphere singing with the audience - rather than at them. The interludes between each song felt personal and light-hearted, allowing for a moments rest before returning to dancing and jumping from both The Vaccines themselves and the passionate crowd. Complimenting their strong presence, the stage and lighting was incredibly well dressed, with an iconic sign and effective lighting suited for each song: notably during If You Wanna with the lights flashing alongside the climactic reprise to the song making it a truly memorable experience.
Jostled in amongst the rest of the fans, I felt like part of a community, hearing heartwarming remarks from those in the crowd and witnessing memories and experiences being crafted between families and friends alike. The Vaccines are clearly a band which bring people together, strangers or not, banding them closer and overlooking any differences between them.
The venue has an incredible sound system, supporting the band’s striking vocals and instrumentals, with clear, intense audio spreading to each corner of the venue. As I travelled across the room between the bar area and exit, I found myself surprised at the depth and quality of the music across the room.
After a lengthy, energetic night, with an ending leaving the crowd wanting more, the band returned to the stage for an encore of No Hope, Ten Years Too Far and All My Friends Are Falling In Love. It was a satisfying end to the night after playing through the catalogue of classic fan favourites and newer songs, ending on a high and cementing their position as a legendary band, celebrating the release of their iconic debut album as well as their achievements and community they have created as a whole.
The Vaccines performed at Rock City on 10th March 2026.
We have a favour to ask
LeftLion is Nottingham’s meeting point for information about what’s going on in our city, from the established organisations to the grassroots. We want to keep what we do free to all to access, but increasingly we are relying on revenue from our readers to continue. Can you spare a few quid each month to support us?
